If you’ve been out and about this morning, you’ve probably noticed the drizzle turning into a mix of snow and rain. But don’t let that fool you – today’s weather is far from done with us. As we head into the evening, West Michigan is set to experience more snowfall, sleet, and rain, with up to 1 inch of snow accumulating by midnight. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and prepared for the day ahead.
What to Expect:
The weather today is going to be all over the place. If you’re seeing rain right now, don’t get too comfortable because it won’t be long before snow, sleet, and more rain show up. Here’s how things will unfold:
-
Snowfall and Accumulations: Right now, the snow might seem light, but it’s just getting started. We’re expecting the snow to pick up this afternoon, especially between 4 PM and 9 PM, when heavier snow is expected to fall. By midnight, we could see up to 1 inch of snow in some areas, especially closer to the lakeshore. It’s not a huge snowstorm, but it’ll definitely make things messy on the roads, so keep an eye on the sky.
-
Road Conditions and Hazards: This is where things get tricky. Wet roads are fine at first, but as temperatures drop, everything will freeze. What starts as rain and sleet could turn into icy patches on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads by the evening. If you have to be out during rush hour, expect slick spots, slow traffic, and visibility that’s not great. It’s not the kind of storm that’s going to make headlines, but it’ll still make driving a little more dangerous than usual.
-
Visibility: Snow could make it hard to see where you’re going, especially as the snow picks up in the evening. If you’re on the road, be prepared for reduced visibility. The heaviest snow will come down in bursts, so one minute it might look like just a few flurries, and the next, you could be driving through a whiteout. Always leave extra space between your car and others.
What Happens After Midnight:
The snow and sleet will wind down after midnight, but don’t think it’s smooth sailing just yet. Temperatures are going to drop into the low 20s, so any leftover moisture on the roads will freeze overnight. Tomorrow morning’s commute could be a slippery one, especially on less-traveled streets. Take it slow and give yourself more time to get where you need to go.
How to Stay Safe:
With the weather taking a turn for the worse, it’s a good idea to get ready now. Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
-
Prepare Your Vehicle: Check your tires, make sure your wipers are in good shape, and double-check that your defroster works. Visibility and traction are going to be key today, and taking care of the little things now will save you a headache later.
-
Plan Ahead: If you don’t have to be out on the roads during the evening rush, it’s best to stay home. But if you must go out, leave yourself plenty of time to get there. Expect slower traffic, and don’t be surprised if you have to slow down for icy patches. Better safe than sorry!
-
Stay Informed: The weather can change quickly, so keep checking for updates as the day goes on. If the conditions worsen, listen for any warnings or advisories and take them seriously. They’re there to help keep you safe.
-
Watch Your Step: It’s not just the roads that will be slippery. Sidewalks, driveways, and other walkways will likely have icy patches, so take your time when walking outside. If you can, salt your walkway to help prevent slips.
While today’s storm might not feel like much, it’s the kind of weather that can sneak up on you. Light snow now, but heavier snow by evening, plus the icy conditions that follow, could make driving and walking a lot more hazardous than you’d expect. Snow accumulation of up to 1 inch is possible by midnight, and with the freeze expected tonight, tomorrow morning’s commute could be tricky.
